Never Never Fail Pie Pastry

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet pastry)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ¾ cups shortening (such as Crisco or lard)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup cold water

Instructions

1. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (if using), and salt.
2. Cut in the shortening
   Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the shortening into the flour mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs (some pea-sized pieces are fine — they help make the crust flaky).
3. Add wet ingredients
   In a small bowl, beat the egg, then add vinegar and cold water. Stir to combine.
4. Combine and form dough
   Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a fork just until the dough starts to come together — do not overmix.
5. Divide and chill
   Divide dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days). You can also freeze for up to 3 months.
6. Roll out and bake as desired
   Roll out on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.
   Use for your favorite pie — fruit, custard, or savory.

Tips for Success

• Chill your shortening and water before mixing for extra flakiness.
• If dough cracks while rolling, let it rest a few minutes to soften slightly.
• For a golden finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water).